Defining Geriatric Foot Care:

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Geriatric patients have higher risks for certain conditions and/or diseases. For instance, they are subject to a variety of foot specific disorders. Some of these disorders/conditions can leave patients handicapped if they are not appropriately handled. Some of these common foot related disorders may include: arthritis, ingrown toenails, fungal nails, diabetic ulcers, and corns/calluses. Proper geriatric foot care decrease the risk for these common issues amongst the elderly significantly.

Geriatric Foot Care: More Information

Many things alter with time. When it comes to health...there are more alterations than in any other area as a result of time or age. One main disadvantage that comes with being "older" is the lower levels of circulation in the lower portions of the body. This decrease in circulation can be combined with another common geriatric issue, diminished sensation. Combined...these two common conditions can often end in skin breakdown or infection. The geriatric group is generally less active and less agile. Many elderly patients may find that they have a hard time maintaining proper hygiene of their feet. They might experience shortness of breath or dizziness as they attempt to bend over to inspect or clean their feet; making it hard to stick to a proper foot care routine. These alterations can be due to common problems among the elderly group. Two such problems are: arthritic alterations and muscle weakness.

Maintaining feet properly can be difficult for elderly individuals. But proper foot care can lead to an increase in the general health of the feet. It can lead to a decrease in the risk for suffering from certain conditions/diseases. Proper geriatric foot care can aid elderly patients in saying healthy and active. They are more likely to maintain their day to day activities. Individuals of the geriatric group should visit their podiatrist regularly to increase their chances for healthy feet; prevention and proper maintenance are the best treatments for most conditions.

Inspecting feet on a daily basis will enable elderly patients to get treatment quickly for any potential anomalies. Avoid walking barefoot. Discuss the potential benefits of orthotics with a podiatrist. Keep feet clean, warm and dry. Use lotion and powder as necessary. Trim toenails straight across. Never use commercial corn pads or ointments.Avoid sitting with the knees crossed; it reduces circulation. Seek surgical intervention for chronic pain or irritation.

When it comes to the geratric group...the ability to remain ambulatory may be the only dividing line between institutionalization and remaining an active, viable member of society. This makes good foot care an essentia for the elderly who prize remaining independent.

Geriatric Foot Care: Recovery Time

The proper geriatric foot care is not a procedure. It is a routine that an individual picks up in order to increase their chances for positive health. Therefore it does not require any recovery time.

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